Pundit issues ‘huge’ Martin Odegaard claim after new Arsenal twist
Noel Whelan has backed Martin Odegaard to return to Arsenal “a lot sharper” as he steps up his injury recovery on international duty.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the quality and “intensity” of the Norway training camp will be “really beneficial” for the 23-year-old.
As per TV2 (22 September), Norway boss Stale Solbakken confirmed Odegaard’s return to full training after getting the “all-clear” on a scan of his calf.
The attacking midfielder then started and played 71 minutes of his country’s 2-1 Nations League defeat to Slovenia on Saturday.
Odegaard missed last week’s (18 September) 3-0 away win at Brentford with the injury – with new arrival Fabio Vieira scoring a long-range debut curler in his stead.
He has already notched three league goals this term as Arsenal sit top of the table.
Whelan insisted Arsenal will be pleased with his progress ahead of next week’s derby against third-placed Tottenham.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Odegaard’s return is huge. I think Arteta will be very happy that he’s out there.
“He’ll be training competitively, getting that match sharpness.
“This is probably the best way to do that rehab – being part of that Norway side and preparing for some big games.
“It’s probably the best thing that could happen to an injured player, and the same goes for Jordan Henderson at England as well.
“Being in that intense environment will be a big help and that high-quality training will help him return to Arsenal a lot sharper.
“When any player goes away the manager holds their breath, but when he’s been out injured – this could be really beneficial.”
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